Making Bio-Enzyme Cleaner from Fruit Peels
By repurposing waste fruit peels, you can make an eco-friendly cleaner at home.
Apparatus
- Plastic soda bottle
(choose one that can handle at least 4 atm of pressure.) - Fruit peels
(citrus works best) - Sugar or jaggery
- Water
Procedure
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Prepare the Peels
Chop the citrus peels into small pieces. Fill about one-third of your bottle with these pieces.
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Add Ingredients
Place the chopped peels in the bottle and add 5 tablespoons of sugar or jaggery.
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Mix with Water
Fill the bottle to approximately 80% capacity with water, leaving some headspace for the gas produced during fermentation. -
Seal and Shake
Tightly cap the bottle and shake well to ensure the sugar dissolves and mixes evenly with the peels and water. -
Fermentation
Store the bottle in a dark, cool place. Let it ferment for about one month.
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Pressure Management
As the natural fermentation produces carbon dioxide (CO₂), the bottle will gradually build up pressure. To avoid any risk of rupture, carefully release the pressure once a week.
How It Works
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Fermentation Process
Beneficial bacteria naturally present on the citrus peels and in the environment consume the sugar, producing CO₂ which increases the internal pressure in the bottle. -
Enzyme and Acid Production
During fermentation, these bacteria also generate enzymes and organic acids. These compounds work together to break down fats, oils, and organic residues. When applied to surfaces, the enzymes help dismantle oily deposits while the acids assist in dissolving dirt. -
Eco-Friendly Cleaning
The final product is a natural cleaner that effectively tackles light grease and grime without relying on harsh chemicals. Note that while it’s great for general cleaning, it is not a disinfectant, so avoid using it where sanitization is required.